Secrects make friends. . .

Without disclosing too much, with the intent to keep you interested, yet wanting to offer proof that this city has many layers to discover- I give to you tonight's adventures. . .

There is a run down convenience store in the heart of downtown, where you can buy sunflower seeds, catholic candles, and fabric softener. The exterior of the store is decorated with graffiti and transients.

Yet tonight the group of friends were not looking for Beef Jerky or cigarettes.
Syd approached the counter and said to the man "Sydnie for eight"
And the attendant glanced at his book then slid a key across the counter.

We followed Syd into the back. The key opened an unmarked door next to the restrooms.

From there is was down a hallway, down stairs, through another locked door that opened with our new key. And opened up into a beautiful bar/restaurant.
(Click HERE before reading anything further to get the full effect)

The place was narrow and dimly lit with animal heads and glass bottles, a record player was pumping out unedited Jay-Z tunes, and all eyes went on us as we walked though the door. Such a treasure hidden of the sketchy street.

No windows, no uniforms for anyone working, there was a place in the far back with wall to wall books and couches to sit and chat. Just casual, that made you want to stay there forever. Food was expensive and worth it.

It will be interesting to see how well this secret is kept, I'm still not quite sure how Syd knew about it.
But there you go, challenge extended- To make your way into the underbelly of the city, to dine in a safe place to talk about moving money around and having secret love affairs.

This city. So beautiful.